POOLE, England, January 29 /PRNewswire/ --

- With Photo

As Lord Mandelson announces a rescue package for the automotive industry,
Zeta's New Business Manager, Niko Lambert, explains why manufacturers must
re-assert their position in the UK economy.

My view is quite simple; an economy that doesn't create wealth is in
trouble. Hedge funds and financial services just create an illusion of wealth
that is only sustainable if that wealth relates directly and realistically to
the "real economy". If most of the workforce is selling financial products,
frying hamburgers, running hedge funds or in the public sector then
eventually the economy will crumble. That's what has happened.

Manufacturing must re-assert its position in the UK economy and expand.
Britain has to manufacture more of its needs in house. Luckily the UK still
has some great manufacturing companies and those that have embraced modern
technology are doing well. I don't just mean the plant and machinery; it's
about branding, customer contact, and the web. Using digital technology to
sell, service, recruit and show the world that British manufacturers are
up-to-date and mean business.

The manufacturing sector can harness innovative design in new green
products. Look at the latest range of cars being produced by BMW. Excellent
products at a premium price built to the highest standards by an EU labour
force. Britain retains a strong worldwide position on the internet. Being
"online" isn't just about e-commerce, although that's a massive sector it's
about management systems, order processing, customer contact, staff
involvement and meaningful business partnerships.

UK based engineering companies that collaborate with overseas partners
yet retain R & D and high tech manufacture in the UK are able to exploit the
best of both worlds. Now is the time to re-balance the emphasis on the
British side of the equation.

Niko Lambert is the New Business Manager at Zeta. To read the original
article, go to http://www.zeta.net/blog/2009/01/british-manufacturers/

About Zeta

Zeta is a leading digital agency specialising in online marketing, design
and development. Its flexible, cost-effective and responsive approach results
in successful campaigns for a diverse range of clients. Visit zeta.net to
find out more.

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Press Information

For further information on Zeta, its products and services please
contact: Niko Lambert, Zeta, 3 Winchester Place, North Street, Poole, Dorset,
BH15 1NX, UK, Tel: +44(0)1202-237139, Email: niko@zeta.net